The New Student Fall Retreat
The New Student Fall Retreat is designed for incoming first-year and transfer students from underrepresented backgrounds. The NSFR creates an inviting space for new students to build friendships, a sense of belonging, all while learning about campus resources and services.
Application for Fall 2025 NSFR - CLOSED
Registration now closed for 2025 school year
Questions? Email cmae@uoregon.edu
The New Student Fall Retreat has been on the University of Oregon campus for over 30 years. It is the longest standing bridge program here at UO.
Norma Trefren, Asst. Director at the Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence
What is the New Student Fall Retreat (NSFR)?
The New Student Fall retreat is a FREE three day retreat that kicks off the start of fall term. The NSFR is designed for incoming first-year and transfer students from underrepresented backgrounds. The program creates an inviting space for students to build new friendships, and activities to learn about campus resources and services.
What does it include:
- Free early move in to the residence halls if living on-campus
- Free parking during the retreat if living off-campus
- Free breakfast, lunch and dinner during the three days of the retreat
- Tours of campus and local excursions in Eugene
- Mentorship from other established University of Oregon students
- Connection to student services and organizations on campus
Who is the New Student Fall Retreat for?
NSFR is meant for first-year and transfer students to have a comprehensive introduction to campus that encourages them to build community, belonging, and engagement with their peers. NSFR is the only Bridge Program program that allows students who live off campus to participate. Participants have found the retreat a great place to find community on campus and confidently start the school year. The retreat is open to all students regardless of international or immigration status.
What happens during the New Student Fall Retreat?
Students at NSFR get to experience campus before other students arrive. "Retreaters" arrive on campus early, take part in engaging activities, and ultimately familiarize themselves with campus and it's resources. Activities in the past have included: workshops on academics; student panels; faculty and staff QA; and a resource fair.
Who organizes the retreat?
The program is lead by the professional staff of the Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence. CMAE academic counselors focus on providing holistic and comprehensive advising and support. The Student Leadership Team, a team of 10-12 upper class students who are passionate about creating community and belonging on campus, lead the activities and engagement during the three days.
Location:
NSFR takes place on the University of Oregon campus. Students who are staying in the residence halls move in early to their hall and have all associated costs of early move-in covered by the program.
Highlights from Previous Years Retreats
The best thing about NSFR was meeting all new people from all kinds of places other than where I am from. I got to make many friends, many of which I regularly keep in touch with and hangout with throughout the school year.
Cuauh, 2023 NSFR Student
I always look forward to the identity exercises. It's rewarding to see how we open up to one another because it shows that CMAE creates an amazing environment where we create deep connections with all retreaters and staff.
Bri, 2022 NSFR Student
The best thing about attending NSFR was making friends and connections with the CMAE staff.
Daniel, 2023 NSFR Student
This opportunity set me up with a million connections and resources I continue to use on campus everyday.
Isabela, 2022 NSFR Student
How long has the New Student Fall Retreat Been on Campus at UO?
NSFR has been at UO for over 30 years. We have one of the longest running programs on campus.
How long is the retreat?
Students move-in on Sunday morning and retreat activities begin at lunch that day and continue through the evening of the third day. Students are required to attend all events of the retreat, in order to have the early move-in fees paid for.
Can my parents or friends come to the retreat?
Families are welcome Sunday during move-in time and for our family brunch/lunch. After lunch we ask families, parents, friends and guest to leave and refrain from visiting so we can begin our programming. Families are free to connect with their student at the end of the retreat. We will have a very packed schedule and downtime is meant to be spent building community and creating a sense of belonging on campus.
Where do accepted students check in when they arrive for the retreat?
Students will receive check-in information to their UO email.
Are meals provided?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided for students for no cost.
Where do off-campus students park during the retreat?
Students will be given an access code to park at the Mill Race Garage.
Where will the students be staying during the retreat?
Students who attend the retreat will have early move-in access. This means you will be moving directly into your assigned residence hall.
Where am I staying if I am not living on campus?
If a student is living off-campus they will be returning back home at the end of the day after activities conclude. You will be provided a free parking permit for the days you are at the retreat.
What do students need to bring?
We do not require students to bring anything to the retreat. However, we do encourage students to bring their backpack, water, or other items they want for a full day of activities. We want students to bring their excitement, engagement, and willingness to participate in the program.
What if I have a concerns about accessibility for myself or my student?
Please reach out to us if you have any concerns about an accessibility issue. We can develop accommodations depending on your needs. Contact info is below.
Where can we find contact information?
If you have any question or concerns about the retreat please send us an email us at cmae@uoregon.edu or give us a call at (541) 346-3479. Back to Top